Log Cabins - Frequently Asked Questions

• Q: What size log cabin do I need?
• Q: Where should I locate my log cabin?
• Q: What type of base is suitable for my log cabin?
• Q: How is the delivery of my log cabin arranged?
• Q: Is my log cabin suitable for DIY assembly?
• Q: How should I maintain my log cabin?
• Q: Can I insulate my log cabin?
• Q: Can I have electricity in my log cabin?
• Q: Is planning permission required for my log cabin?
• Q: Is building regulations approval required for my log cabin?
• Q: What are granular steel roof tiles?

What size log cabin do I need?

• The space will always be used, so buy the biggest log cabin you can afford provided that it fits comfortably in the space available. There are no precise guidelines regarding the size. Often the size of the log cabin is dictated by the space available. At Summer Garden Rooms we offer a wide range of sizes to suit every space. If you are replacing an existing garden room you should consider whether to have the same size again or perhaps larger. You should also consider how you may wish to use your log cabin. Could your log cabin be used for dining? The smallest garden room is generally 8' x 8'. A popular size for a single room log cabin is around 12' x 12'. We also supply multi room log cabin and larger made to measure cabins.

Where should I locate my log cabin?

• Ideally your log cabin should have a clear space at least 18" wide on all sides, if possible. This ensures easy access for both installation and future maintenance. In reality this is often not practical and at many sites it is not needed. A reduced clearance is often possible on one or two sides. If the space around your log cabin is restricted remember to allow for any roof overhang. You should also cut back or remove any nearby shrubs and trees. Remember to allow for future growth. We recommend a sheltered position which is not exposed.

What type of base is suitable for my log cabin?

• All log cabins need a substantial base. The base should be solid, square, flat and level to ensure the stability of your log cabin. Paving slabs or concrete are ideal. A solid concrete base is more permanent and normally more expensive but it provides an excellent base especially for a larger log cabin. Paving slabs are more practical and cost effective, especially for a smaller log cabin at the far end of the garden. The base should be no smaller than the floor size of the new log cabin and no more than a few inches larger.

How is the delivery of my log cabin arranged?

• You will receive advance notice of the delivery day either in writing or by telephone. If it is not convenient you can postpone the delivery with reasonable notice. These log cabins are extremely heavy, with an average cabin weighing around a tonne. Delivery requires a large lorry. The delivery lorry normally includes a crane or fork lift to unload your log cabin quickly and easily without assistance. When there is no lorry with crane available the driver will unload the cabin by hand. There is normally one pack which is normally unloaded on the drive or verge at the front of your property. Pack sizes vary from around 3.0m long for a small cabin to 5.5m long for a larger cabin. The packs are polythene wrapped and securely strapped while in transit but after the pack is opened the individual components are easy to carry. The wall logs can be carried one or two at a time and all packages are designed to pass through a normal single door.

Is my log cabin suitable for DIY assembly?

• All of our log cabins are suitable for DIY assembly. Assembly is a straightforward and satisfying project for any DIY enthusiast. Even large log cabins can be installed with only basic tools, such as a hammer, a screwdriver, a power drill, a spirit level, an adjustable spanner, a knife, a stepladder and safety goggles. Particular care is required when handling glass and good quality gloves should be worn at all times. You should not attempt to lift heavy sections without a helping pair of hands. Remember that extra time spent preparing a good base is normally repaid with time saved later on during the installation.

How should I maintain my log cabin?

• Our timber log cabins require regular treatment. We also recommend that you regularly oil the door and window hinges as required to ensure continued smooth operation. We recommend that the external timber should be treated every year or so with a good quality wood stain. This will prolong the life of your log cabin. All major wood stain manufacturers offer suitable products in a choice of colours, available from good hardware shops. Summer Garden Buildings also offer a range of microporous wood preservatives in a choice of colours. Although normally offered with a new building only we are always happy to supply any of our microporous preservatives separately at any time to an existing customer who purchased one of our log cabins.

Can I insulate my log cabin?

• The floor and roof of our log cabins can be easily insulated. Floor insulation is fitted directly under the floor boards and between the floor joists. Roof insulation is fixed above the roof boards. At Summer Garden Buildings we offer roof and floor insulation kits for most of our cabins with everything you need including all necessary fixings at very affordable prices. Floor and roof insulation is recommended if you want to use your cabin all year round.

Can I have electricity in my log cabin?

• Although providing an electricity supply to a log cabin is normally a straightforward task, for safety reasons we recommend that you consult an approved electrician first. Since January 1st 2005 all electrical work must be completed in accordance with IEE wiring regulations and BS 7671. Notifiable work must be either notified directly to the local building control department or completed by an operator who is approved under the Part P Electrical Competent Person Scheme.

Is planning permission required for my log cabin?

• The majority of log cabins do not require planning permission. However, permission is required for any log cabin or garden room which covers over half the garden, which is not for domestic use or which is over 3 metres high with a pent roof or 4 metres high with an apex roof. Larger log cabins which are within 2 metres of a boundary and over 2.5m high (8'2") require planning permission. Some larger log cabins with apex or hipped roof designs may be over 2.5m high. Planning permission may also be required for any building which is nearer to a public highway than the original dwelling. For planning purposes a public highway includes any road or footpath with a public right of way. If you live in a Conservation Area or a Listed Building permission may be required for any log cabin. This brief summary is not intended to be a comprehensive guide. Contact us for further advice or contact your local planning department. Please note that planning regulations apply to any building whether temporary or permanent including log cabins.

Is building regulations approval required for my log cabin?

• The majority of log cabins do not require approval under the building regulations. However, approval is required for any log cabin or garden room with an internal floor area of more than 30 square metres. Please note that the building regulations apply to any building in excess of 30 square metres whether temporary or permanent including log cabins.

What are granular steel roof tiles?

• At Summer Garden Buildings we offer granular steel roof tiles for some of our best apex roof log cabins. Granular steel roof tiles are made from the highest quality steel, with an aluminium and zinc coating for maximum corrosion protection. Additionally, the tiles are further protected with 2 layers of weather resistant acrylic coating and a coverage of natural stone chips. Uses include homes, flats, schools, offices and all types of buildings. Our granular steel roof tiles make a lightweight roof which has been tested and proved suitable for every climate throughout the world from hurricanes and hailstones to heatwaves. Resistance to UV radiation ensures reduced colour fading. An environmentally friendly fungicide is contained within the coating to ensure no moss or lichen growth.

View our Log Cabin Buyer's Guide.

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